subject: Tefl Courses: Online And Onsite Programs [print this page] TEFL refers to Teaching English as a Foreign Language. To teach English as a foreign language, you need to have a good grasp over the language. Further, you need to possess excellent communication, time management and planning skills.
Obtaining an internationally recognized TEFL certificate can improve your chances in the job market. Pursuing a comprehensive course for Teaching English as a Foreign Language enables you to learn:
* Lesson planning.
* Techniques to capture the interest of students and keep them engaged.
* Classroom management and activities, such as role-play, group discussion, debates and other group work.
* Grammar and vocabulary.
* Cultural sensitivity.
TEFL Courses: Online Vs. Onsite Courses
There are two basic options for pursuing TEFL certification courses, onsite and online programs. Both types of programs intend to achieve similar goals but in different ways. They provide theoretical and practical knowledge, which helps you to become a competent English teacher. Read on to choose the best option for you.
Online Programs
Online programs are one of the fastest and most convenient options. The online lessons are imparted by technically savvy tutors. An online course will cost you somewhere between $300 and $500. Further, the course duration depends on the type of program. The duration of a basic program is 40 hours and 150 hours for a more intensive course.
Online programs offer several benefits, such as:
* You can study from any location with the help of a computer.
* They allow you to learn at your own pace.
* They are less expensive than onsite TEFL courses.
* You can work while completing the course.
* Online assistance from experienced tutors.
* Easily accessible study material available 24/7.
Usually online courses do not provide the practical teaching experiences. However, some courses include training videos and DVDs to demonstrate real life teaching techniques. These programs are especially beneficial for those who are unable to attend onsite classes due to the lack of time.
